VACCINATION BY DENTISTS: Where it's already happening Why it makes sense How it could improve public health - Michigan Dental Association
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HPV Awareness and
Prevention in Dental Health
Care Settings
MDA Legislative Advocacy:
What We’ve Done, and
What’s to Come
OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION MARCH 2021 MDA COVID-19 Practice
Survey Results
VACCINATION
BY DENTISTS:
Where it’s already happening
Why it makes sense
How it could improve public health
M I C H I G A N D E N T A L . O R G
E N D O R S E D
CONTENTS
Breaking News Updates
Visit michigandental.org
Journal eNews
March Journal eNews mails March 19 — watch for it!
FEATURES
HPV Awareness and
Prevention in Dental Health
Creating Opportunities for HPV Awareness and Prevention in Dental Health Care
Care Settings
MDA Legislative Advocacy:
Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
What We’ve Done, and
What’s to Come
By Charlotte Cortis, DDS, and Abigail Cortis
OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION MARCH 2021 MDA COVID-19 Practice
Survey Results
VACCINATION MDA Legislative Advocacy 2021: What We’ve Done and What’s to Come . . . . . . . . 42
A look back at the MDA’s legislative accomplishments in 2020,
BY DENTISTS:
Where it’s already happening and a look ahead at the MDA’s 2021 agenda.
Why it makes sense By Connie Verhagen, DDS, MS, and Josh Kluzak
How it could improve public health
How COVID-19 Has Impacted Michigan Dentists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
A report with full results of a statewide survey of MDA-member dentists.
By Karen Burgess, MBA, CAE
MICHIGANDENTAL.ORG
DEPARTMENTS
March 2021 Journal.indd 1 2/10/2021 1:05:14 PM
Contact Your MDA Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Governmental Affairs Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
COVER STORY . . . 32 News You Need . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Vaccination by Dentists: Endorsed Programs News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Integrating Vaccination into Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Dental Practice Integrating Vaccination with Oral Health Care
MDA At Your Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
I’m Confused about My License Expiration Date
By Denise D. Hale, DDS
Dentistr y and the Law. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Further Discussion on COVID-19 Vaccination Employer Liability Issues
Staff Matters ® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Embezzlement: More Common Than You Think, and COVID-19 Isn’t Helping
About the cover: Dr. Ryan Thrower, an
Oregon orthodontic graduate student,
MDA Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Maximize Business with Electronic Prescribing
administers COVID-19 vaccination to Ansu
Peer Review/Ethics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Drammeh, a cardiovascular intensive care
The Ethics of Employee Vaccination
nurse. Thrower received vaccination training
10-Minute EBD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
while a dental student at Oregon Health and
Supporting COVID-19 Vaccination through Evidence-Based Messaging
Science University. According to the school,
Journal Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Thrower is the first dental resident ever to
administer a COVID-19 vaccine. Continuing Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Advertiser Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
SPECIAL FEATURES
News from the MDA Foundation. . . 7 Names in the News . . . . . . . . . 10
Keeping Current. . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Helping You Succeed . . . . . . . . 12
Your April 2021 MDA Journal will be mailed April 1, 2021
Copyright © 2021 Michigan Dental Association
2 JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021WE
’VE THIS Y
GO EAR
NE
VIR
TU
ANNUAL AL!
SESSION
DESTINATION
DENTAL EDUCATION
annualsession.michigandental.org
#DESTINATIONDENTALEDUCATION
TOP 5 MUST-ATTEND SESSIONS!
COURSE #26 COURSE #40
Us vs. Them - Keynote Address Top 10 Pharmacotherapeutics for Orofacial
Jeff Havens Pain Disorders
Special Session: FREE Seena Patel, DMD, MPH
Thursday, April 22, 2021 Friday April 23, 2021
3:30-4:30 pm 2-4 pm
COURSE #1 COURSE #53
E-Cigarettes and Vaping: Nutrition: What’s Best for Your Patient’s Oral Health
What We Know and What We Don’t Tieraona Low Dog, MD
Judith S. Gordon, PhD Saturday April 24, 2021
Thursday April 22, 2021 1-3 pm
9-10 am
COURSE #28 and #35
Maximizing Non-Surgical Periodontal NEW THIS YEAR – NOW 100% ONLINE!
Therapy Part I and II
Paul Levi Jr., DMD and Rui Ma, DMD Enjoy Michigan’s largest dental meeting from the comfort
Friday April 23, 2021 of your home, April 22-24, 2021! The MDA Annual Session
Part I: 9-11 am – Destination Dental Education has gone virtual, with live
Part II: 1-3 pm CE, new pricing options, virtual exhibit hall, and on-demand
access to recorded courses for up to 60 days following the
event. All courses run one or two hours to streamline the
conversion to virtual.
Register now and start plotting your virtual destination.
Visit: annualsession.michigandental.orgV O L . 10 3, N O. 3
Two
Pathways to
RDA
Licensure Follow the MDA on Twitter:
@MIDentalAssoc
OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION
W ashtenaw Community College’s
American Dental Association- Editor-in-Chief
MDA on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/
accredited Dental Assisting program Christopher J. Smiley, DDS; csmiley@michigandental.org michigandentalassociation
offers two pathways for dental assistants
Executive Editor MDA’s YouTube channel:
who want to become Registered Dental
Karen Burgess, MBA, CAE; kburgess@michigandental.org www.YouTube.com/
Assistants.
MichDentists
Managing Editor MDA on Instagram:
David A. Foe, MA, CDE; dfoe@michigandental.org www.instagram.com/
mda_dentists
Editorial Advisory Board
Robert Coleman, DDS, MS; Marie Fluent, DDS; Julie Frantsve-Hawley, RDH, PhD;
Mark Jurkovich, DDS, MBA, MHI; Blake Livingston, DDS; Melanie E. Mayberry, DDS, MS-HCM;
Partha Mukherji, DDS; Stephanie M. Munz, DDS, FSCD; Richard W. Panek DDS;
Casey Rhines, DDS; Robert Rosenthal, DDS, CDC; Dan Schulte, JD.
MDA Officers
President: Stephen Meraw, DDS, MS; president-elect: Michael Maihofer, DDS;
past president: Margaret Gingrich, DDS; secretary/treasurer: Eric Knudsen, DDS;
editor: Christopher Smiley, DDS; speaker of the House: Todd Christy, DDS;
CEO/executive director: Karen Burgess, MBA, CAE.
Pathway I is for the student with no
MDA Trustees
previous dental experience. Students
Vincent Benivegna, DDS; Christopher Gorecki, DDS; Vincent Lizzio, DDS;
attend clinical classes in a traditional on Christine Mason, DDS; Melanie Mayberry, DDS; Cheri Newman, DDS;
campus setting while using Blackboard William Patchak, DDS; Robert Richards, DDS; Lauryne Vanderhoof, DDS.
for the online component. Pathway I
classes begin each Fall semester. ADA Ninth District Trustee
Julio Rodriguez, DDS
Pathway II/ADAEP (Alternative Dental
Assisting Education Project) is for the MDA Journal email: dfoe@michigandental.org
On-The-Job-Trained (OJT) dental
assistant with two or more years of MDA VISION STATEMENT: The MDA is Michigan’s oral health authority dedicated to the public and the profession.
dental assisting experience who has
MDA VALUES: We are guided by integrity and ethics; committed to the improvement of the public’s overall health;
passed all three portions of the Dental
we believe oral health is integral to overall health; in an inclusive environment that embraces diversity; that the
Assisting National Board (DANB) CDA profession of dentistry and the oral health team must be led by dentists to ensure the safety of the public; and that
exam. Pathway II students receive lifelong learning is critical to excellence in patient care.
college credit for passing the CDA
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association (publication # 284760; ISSN 0026-2102) is published monthly
exam. Students are required to attend a by the Michigan Dental Association at 3657 Okemos Rd., Suite 200, Okemos, MI 48864-3927. Periodicals
mandatory two-day on campus postage paid at Okemos, MI, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to
workshop at the beginning of the Michigan Dental Association, 3657 Okemos Rd., Suite 200, Okemos, MI 48864-3927.
semester and will use Blackboard for the
All views expressed in The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association are published on the authority of the
online component. At the end of the writer and are not to be regarded as the views of the MDA unless such statements have been adopted by
semester the students are required to the association. The association reserves the right to reduce, revise or reject any manuscript submitted for
return to campus to take a clinical final publication. Articles and photos published in the Journal become the property of the MDA and may be re-
exam. Pathway II classes are very produced or reprinted only after written permission has been granted. Copyright © 2021 by the Michigan
popular and begin each Fall, Winter and Dental Association.
Spring/Summer semester.
Display or classified advertising rates are available upon request; phone 517-372-9070, ext. 419 or 421 or visit
www.michigandental.org. The Michigan Dental Association reserves the right to reject any advertising or adver-
For more information contact tising copy. Advertising copy must conform to the official standards established by the MDA.
Tina Sprague at 734-973-3337 Subscription rates: Out-of-state ADA members: $35; Non-members: $70; U.S. University libraries: $15. Back is-
sues: $5 per copy for MDA members, $8 per copy for non-members.
Or visit
Member publication, American Association of Dental Editors and Journalists.
http://health.wccnet.edu/
dentalassisting/
Advertising Rates and Information: Call 800-589-2632, ext. 419 or 421 or email
jhammond@michigandental.org. See online rate card at www.michigandental.
org/Journal_Ads.
4 JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021CO N TAC T YO U R M DA STA FF
SAVE TIME — CONNECT FASTER — DIAL DIRECT — Dial 517 and the direct lines listed below, or send an email!
Executive Office Membership/Student Affairs Heidi DuMond, Health Representative
Karen Burgess, CEO/Executive Director Angie Kanazeh, Director of Membership hdumond@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9440
kburgess@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9425 akanazeh@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9415 Angela Dembowske, Health and Life Representative
Jennifer Lennemann, Executive Assistant Joanne Floyd, Membership Coordinator and Data Specialist adembowske@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9478
jlennemann@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9461 jfloyd@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9451 Lisa Sillman, Health and Life Representative
Michelle Nichols-Cruz, Governance Manager Iesha Coleman, Membership Concierge Specialist lsillman@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9450
mcruz@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9414 icoleman@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9453 Tyler Oberlin Scott, Health and Life Representative
Regina Simmons, Receptionist tscott@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9437
Human Resources
rsimmons@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9400
Brandy J. Ryan, Director of Human Resources Professional Liability, Practice Property and
bryan@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9416 Marketing/Communications Workers’ Comp.
Kelly Risley, Human Resources Administrative Assistant Jenny Armistead, Director of Marketing and Communications Jeff Spindler, Director, P&C Programs
krisley@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9406 jarmistead@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9412 jspindler@mdaifg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9444
Jason Heinrich, Marketing/Graphic Design Coordinator Tina Croley, Commercial Lines Manager/Account Executive
Accounting/Production/Building
jheinrich@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9429 tcroley@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9448
Don Winn, Chief Financial Officer
Publications/Website Jennifer Goss, Commercial Lines Supervisor
dwinn@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9407
Dave Foe, Director, Print and e-Publications jgoss@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9466
Abigail Stewart, Bookkeeper
dfoe@michigandental.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9421 Nathan Boisclair, Commercial Lines Agent
astewart@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9424
Jeff Mertens, Communications/Technology Manager nboisclair@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9420
Dave Lutz, Purchasing & Facilities Specialist
jmertens@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9460 Michael Mowatt, Commercial Lines Agent
dlutz@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9426
Jackie Hammond, Publications Assistant mmowatt@mdaifg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9447
Continuing Education Jim Rosner, Commercial Lines Agent
jhammond@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9419
Andrea Sundermann, CE Director jrosner@mdaifg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9469
asunder@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9403 Michigan Dental Association Aaron Simmons, Commercial Lines Agent
Shawna Owens, CE Manager Foundation aaron@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9404
sowens@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9402 Nancy Maier, Executive Director Deb Fernandez, Billing and Processing Specialist
Jody Marquardt, CE Assistant nmaier@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9423 dfernandez@mdaifg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9457
jmarquardt@michigandental.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9408 Janet Elliott, Administrative Assistant Personal Lines — Home and Auto
Marcia Bethea, Part-time CE Support jelliott@michigandental.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9458 Jeni Drummond, Personal Lines Manager
mbethea@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9401
jdrummond@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9462
Government/Insurance/Access/ MDA Insurance
Beth Jackson, Personal Lines Agent
Professional Affairs Craig Start, President
bjackson@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9443
Bill Sullivan, Vice President, Advocacy and Professional Relations cstart@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9441
Jill Faught, Personal Lines Agent
bsullivan@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9405 Donna Elowsky, Executive Assistant
jfaught@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9456
Josh Kluzak, Manager of Government and Insurance Affairs delowsky@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9445
Kara Miilu, Personal Lines Agent
jkluzak@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9422 Sabrina Rawson, Accounting Administrator
kmiilu@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9410
April Stopczynski, Manager of Access and Prevention srawson@mdaifg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9433
astop@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9417 MDA Services
Health, Life, Disability
Kesha Dixon, Government/Insurance Affairs/Access Asst. Cindy Hoogasian, Director, MDA Services and Marketing
Tina Voss, Director, Health and Life Operations
kdixon@michigandental.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9452 choogasian@mdaifg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9467
tvoss@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9479
Karn Cornell, Michigan Donated Dental Services (DDS) Reva Darling, Marketing Manager
Shawn Haindel, Manager of Health and Life
Coordinator rdarling@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9446
shaindel@mdaifg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9442
kcornell@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9455
Rick Seely, Account Executive
Domonique Brace, Michigan Donated Dental Services
rseely@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9411
(DDS) Coordinator
Averill Meadows, Account Executive
dbrace@michigandental.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9454
ameadows@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9435 Contact Us
Ginger Fernandez, Professional Review and Practice
Melanie Adler, Account Executive/Cyber Coordinator 3657 Okemos Rd., Suite 200
Management Manager
madler@mdaifg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9464 Okemos, MI 48864-3927
gfernandez@michigandental.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9430
Michelle Miller, Billing and Insurance Coordinator 800-589-2632 or 517-372-9070
Chris Wilson, Professional Review and Practice Management
mmiller@mdaifg.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9439 Care and Well Being 517-525-5624
Specialist
MDA Insurance 800-860-2272
cwilson@michigandental.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346-9409
MDA Health Plan 877-906-9924
JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021 5N E WS YO U N EED Annual Session to Go Virtual Due to Pandemic; Dates, Fees, Speakers to Remain the Same; Coming April 22-24 This year’s MDA Annual Session Virtual exhibits with show spe- will be held virtually instead of on- cials will be available during the site at the Lansing Center due to live Annual Session and will also the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic be available for 60 days following — that’s the decision made by the the meeting. Table Clinics will not MDA Board of Trustees last month take place this year. at its February meeting. Other speakers at this year’s But rest assured: The Annual meeting include Dr. Lauren Session will still take place April Johnson, Dr. Sanjay Chand, Dr. Tom 22-24, and all courses, speakers, Lambert, Dr. Michael Zuroff, Dr. dates, and course times will remain Patrick Houlihan, Dr. Peter Auster, the same, just as if the meeting Dr. Francisco Ramos-Gomez, Dr. were being held in person. And, Seena Patel, Dr. Andre Mickel, and attendees will receive “in person” many others. MDA speakers CE credits for attending the live CE sessions. All courses include Dr. Vince Benivegna speaking on “The Opioid will run either one or two hours in length. Epidemic” and Dr. Chris Smiley on “Understanding CDT Current and future registrants for the meeting will Codes.” Dr. Todd Christy, Dr. Deb Peters, and MDA CEO/ receive complete instructions on how to access the meet- Executive Director Karen Burgess will conduct leadership ing virtually — watch your email for updates. If you have sessions, part of the special Leadership Forum taking already registered for Annual Session, your courses and place during Annual Session. Brandy Ryan, MDA director fees will be transferred to the virtual event. If you prefer of human resources, will present a human resources not to attend virtually, please contact the MDA’s Jody update on “The Hottest HR Topics of 2021.” Marquardt at jmarquardt@michigandental.org for a refund. For the full listing of courses, see the Annual Session Members and staff who sign up for either the Annual Preview mailed to you in February, or see last month’s Session course package or for individual courses will also be Journal. Visit annualsession.michigandental.org for com- able to access recorded webinars of each course for 60 days plete Annual Session information and registration. following Annual Session. CE credits earned by viewing the recorded sessions will count in the online CE category. In-person meeting not feasible This year’s CE lineup includes 30 speakers and more MDA Annual Session Chair Dr. Dan Edwards said the than 50 courses. A Leadership Forum Track has been decision to move to a virtual meeting was prompted by added, which offers courses in communication skills, several factors. ethical considerations for leaders, and diversity, equity “While we had hoped to hold this year’s meeting in per- and inclusion topics. son in downtown Lansing, it became clear that doing so The 2021 Annual Session keynote speaker will be Jeff would not be possible,” Edwards said. “There remains a Havens, speaking on “Us vs. Them,” a program on genera- high rate of COVID infection in our state, many citizens have tional leadership. This free session is open to all mem- not yet been vaccinated, and many others wouldn’t feel bers of the dental team and will take place on Thursday, comfortable attending an in-person meeting. In addition, April 22 at 3:30 p.m., with one CE credit. continuing restrictions on the size of meetings such as ours Havens Mickel Patel Ramos-Gomez Chand Johnson 6 JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021
2021 MDA Annual Session MDA Board Policy Urges Vaccinations
Goes Virtual! JUST IN — The MDA Board of Trustees at its Feb. 19 meeting adopted resolu-
tions urging dental professionals to be vaccinated against COVID-19, as well as
n Speakers, courses, dates, times,
advocating that dentists be allowed to administer the COVID-19 vaccine and
rates all remain the same
other critical vaccines.
n Attend virtually from your home
The approved resolutions, which now become Board policy, are as follows:
or office
n Resolved, that in the interests of the health and safety of the individual,
n Courses will run one or two hours the dental team, the patient, and the public at large, the MDA urges all dental
in length professionals to be vaccinated against COVID-19 unless there is a compelling
n Receive live, in-person CE credits medical reason not to do so.
April 22-24 n Resolved, that the Michigan Dental Association encourage the governor to
n Visit the special Virtual Exhibit allow dentists to serve in the delivery model of the COVID-19 vaccine to the
Hall for show specials residents of the state of Michigan.
n Convenient, affordable CE for n Resolved, that it is the position of the Michigan Dental Association that
you and your entire dental team dentists with the requisite knowledge and skills should be allowed to adminis-
ter critical vaccines to prevent life or health-threatening conditions and protect
make it unfeasible to hold an in-person the life and health of patients and staff at the point of care.
meeting for the number of attendees A complete report on the Feb. 19 Board of Trustees meeting will appear in
we would normally welcome.” next month’s Journal, or contact the MDA’s Michelle Cruz via email at mcruz@
Current meeting restrictions require michigandental.org for a report of actions.
that no more than 100 people may
gather in a distinct space, with a limit
of 20 people per
1,000 square feet.
Have You Downloaded the MDA App?
“Based on these The MDA’s new Connection app is getting great reviews — and so far more
restrictions, the than 550 members have downloaded it and enjoying quick access to the MDA’s
number of attend- many member benefits.
ees in each meet- The MDA Connection app puts you in touch with the information members
ing room would most frequently request from the MDA. Plus, selected push notifications give you
be low, and it instant access to breaking news or important updates.
would be difficult To download the app, search “MDA Connection” on the Apple App Store and
if not impossible on Google Play. Don’t forget to allow push notifications after installing, too.
to properly limit Edwards
the number of
people in hallways between courses, in
exhibits, and so on,” Edwards said. NEWS FROM THE M DA FOUNDATION
The MDA Annual Session
Committee discussed the possibility You’re Invited – The Sparkling Smiles Virtual Celebration
of holding a hybrid meeting, with As part of your 2021 virtual Annual Session experience, join the Michigan
some portions in-person and others Dental Association Foundation for the 2021 Sparkling Smiles Virtual Celebra-
held virtually, but the committee tion, taking place Thursday, April 22, 2021 at 7 p.m.
believed that would be unrealistic Join your colleagues as we celebrate the Foundation’s grant, scholarship,
and largely inconvenient for attend- and partnership programs — and the
ees, volunteers, and staff. extraordinary donors and volunteers who
“We are excited about holding our make it all happen.
first virtual MDA Annual Session, and The Virtual Celebration promises to sur-
we know it will be a great CE event for prise and delight, and importantly, also show the significant impact your Foun-
MDA members and their dental teams. dation is making around the state. It’s sure to be a celebration to remember!
We invite you to be a part of this spe- To take part, RSVP to foundation@michigandental.org by April 1, or call
cial MDA event,” Edwards said. 517-346-9458. If you’re unable to virtually attend and would like to make a
For complete Annual Session contribution to improve dental health or honor Foundation donors, visit the MDA
information and updates, visit Foundation website to donate. Visit foundation.michigandental.org.
annualsession.michigandental.org.
JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021 7N E WS YO U N EED
New Tuition-free Program Could Ease DA, RDA Shortage
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in early February announced gible adults who want to pursue an associate degree or
the launch of the new $30 million Michigan Reconnect skills certificate at their in-district community college.
program, to help Michiganders age 25 or older without a The program also offers skills scholarships to help cover
college degree to earn a tuition-free associate degree or the cost of tuition through more than 70 private training
skills certificate. schools.
“All Michiganders deserve a pathway to a good-paying Reconnect scholarships will be accepted by all
job, whether they choose to pursue a college degree, tech- Michigan community colleges and are also available to
nical certificate, or an apprenticeship,” Whitmer said. eligible adults who are already enrolled in their local
“Michigan Reconnect will connect thousands of community college. The program pays the remaining bal-
Michiganders to good-paying jobs and connect businesses ance of tuition and mandatory fees after other state and
with the talent they need to thrive in their communities.” federal financial aid have been applied. For those who
In dentistry, an on–the-job-trained dental assistant choose to attend an out-of-district community college,
could use the program to take coursework to become a Reconnect will pay the in-district portion of tuition.
registered dental assistant or registered dental hygienist. To be eligible for Michigan Reconnect, students must:
The expanded educational opportunities offered by this n Be at least 25 years old when they apply.
program could help ease the shortage of dental team n Have lived in Michigan for a year or more.
members in Michigan. n Have a high school diploma.
Whitmer said a goal of the bipartisan program was to n Have not yet completed a college degree (associate
increase to 60% by 2030 the number of Michiganders who or bachelor’s).
have a post-secondary degree. As of 2019, only 41% of Eligible residents can learn more and apply for
Michigan’s working-age residents had an associate degree Michigan Reconnect at michigan.gov/Reconnect. The
or higher, placing Michigan at 31st in the nation. application takes less than five minutes to complete and
Michigan Reconnect will pay the cost of tuition for eli- can be done on a mobile phone.
The MDA works hard to provide the very highest level of service to
MDA SERVICE members. The MDA stands ready to help you access member benefits
such as insurance products, endorsed services, continuing education,
PROMISE dental supplies, and more. Plus, the MDA is your resource to answer
questions about human resources, licensure, dental benefits, HIPAA/
OSHA, legal questions – everything about dentistry in Michigan.
The MDA Service Promise to you:
HELPFULNESS
The MDA Service Promise: The MDA will work hard to make sure your individual needs are met in a
Helping You Succeed timely manner.
KNOWLEDGE
The MDA will be your information resource, providing you with what you
need to know, no matter what your practice setting or stage of practice.
HONESTY
The MDA will be your trusted source for accurate information, and will
offer options to address your particular challenges.
VALUE
The MDA will seek your input to create products, services, benefits and
For more information:
resources to enhance value and help you succeed.
michigandental.org/Service-Promise
8 JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021Questions Sought KEEPING CURRENT
for MDA Candidate Events and Such
Forum To publicize a local meeting or dental event in this space, contact Jackie
Hammond at jhammond@michigandental.org. Continuing education courses
A Candidate Forum for contested
are listed in the Journal Continuing Education department.
MDA positions is scheduled to take
March 4 — Committee on Peer Review/Dental Care via Zoom, 8 a.m.
place on Saturday, April 17, following
the virtual House of Delegates meet- March 5 — MDA Foundation Board of Directors via Zoom, 1 p.m.
ing. All MDA members are invited to March 9 — MDA President’s Visit via Zoom. Washtenaw District, 6:30
attend this question-and-answer ses- p.m.
sion. March 12 — Committee on Public Relations via Zoom, 9 a.m.
This year, three trustee positions March 16 — MDA President’s Visit via Zoom. Muskegon District, 6:30
for a three-year term are open. Also, p.m.
based on the results of the president- March 19 — Committee on Peer Review/Ethics via Zoom, 8 a.m.
elect election, there may be an addi- March 19 — Committee on Governmental and Insurance Affairs via
tional one-year trustee position avail- Zoom, 9 a.m.
able. March 19 — New Dentist Committee via Zoom, 2 p.m.
At press time, Dr. Michelle
March 23 — MDA House of Delegates Orientation via Zoom, 7 p.m.
Dziurgot, of Shelby Township; Dr.
March 24 — Membership Committee via Zoom, 6 p.m.
Jerry Kohen, of West Bloomfield; and
Dr. Christine Mason, of St. Johns, are March 25 — Committee on Peer Review/Health & Well-Being via Zoom,
candidates for the three-year trustee 8 a.m.
terms. March 26 — Executive Committee via Zoom, 8 a.m.
Dr. Erick Rupprecht, of Ada, is a
candidate for a one-year position on Welcome, New Members!
the Board. The MDA is pleased to officially welcome the following individuals into
Submit your question: Members membership:
are encouraged to submit questions Kalamazoo Valley: Maureen Thomas; Washtenaw: Suncica Travan; West
for the candidates to answer at the Michigan: Alex LaHood.
Candidate Forum. To submit a ques-
tion, email the MDA’s Michelle Cruz
BHS Disciplinary Report
at mcruz@michigandental.org prior
Visit www.michigan.gov/lara to access the latest disciplinary reports for
to April 1, 2021. The MDA House of
Delegates will vote on the candidates dentists, registered dental hygienists, and registered dental assistants. You
at its Sunday, April 18 meeting. may also check any licensee for disciplinary actions at the same web
Additional information on all can- address.
didates will appear in your April
Journal and on the MDA website. Self-Reporting of Criminal Convictions and Disciplinary Licensing Actions
Section 16222(3) of Michigan’s Public Health Code requires any licensee
CMS Issues or registrant to self-report to the Department of Community Health a
criminal conviction or a disciplinary licensing or registration action taken by
e-Prescribing Rule the state of Michigan or by another state against the licensee or registrant.
The report must be made within 30 days after the date of the conviction or
Heads up: Michigan’s electronic
action. Convictions and/or disciplinary actions that have been stayed
prescription requirement takes effect
pending appeal must still be reported.
Oct. 1, 2021, and beginning Jan. 1,
2022, controlled substance prescrip- Should the licensee or registrant fail to report, and the Department
tions for Medicare beneficiaries will becomes aware of the conviction or action, an allegation will be filed
also be required to be transmitted against the licensee or registrant. Sanctions for failing to report can include
electronically. The MDA has endorsed reprimand, probation, suspension, restitution, community service, denial or
iCoreRx, with special discount pric- fine. For more information contact the MDA’s Ginger Fernandez at 800-
ing. Visit mdaprograms.com and 589-2632, ext. 430.
search for iCoreRx..
JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021 9N E WS YO U N EED
Proposed Bylaws Changes/ NAMES IN THE NEWS
Dues to Be Posted Kudos to Livingston County dentists and patients
— they raised nearly $50,000 last year for the annual
Changes to the MDA bylaws will come before the 2021 Gold for Food program, which supports the Gleaners
MDA House of Delegates, which meets virtually on April Community Food Bank of Livingston County. Dentists
17 and April 18, according to Dr. Eric Knudsen, MDA participating in the program collect extracted teeth
secretary-treasurer. containing precious meals from patients. The teeth are
In keeping with Chapter XIV of the then sent to a refinery and the dollar value is matched by
MDA bylaws, the MDA membership Kroger food stores.
MDA member dentists participating in the program
will be notified via print and elec-
included Dr. Brad Rondeau, Dr. Virginia Eick, Dr.
tronic communications regarding
Matthew Matuszak, Dr. Walter Goodell, Dr. Tara Wilson,
amendments to the MDA bylaws,
Dr. Todd Charlick, Dr. Melissa Shalhoub, Dr. Michelle
Kudsen said. A two-thirds vote of
Andrusyszyn, Dr. Christina Scanlon, Dr. Bill Metz, Dr.
delegates present and voting at the Jonathan Birchmeier, Dr. John G. Keeton, Dr. Gwynne
House will be required to approve a Attarian, and Dr. Fred Bonine. To date, dentists in
bylaws change. Livingston County have generated a grand total of more
This year’s amendments will be than $400,000.
posted this month on the MDA web- Knudsen
site at least 45 days prior to the meeting. Kevin Byrd, DDS, PhD, has joined the ADA Science
Any member of the MDA, upon request, will be for- and Research Institute’s Department of Innovation &
warded the entire amendment(s). To view all resolutions Technology Research as the Anthony R. Volpe Research
before the MDA 2021 House of Delegates, go to michigan- Scholar. Byrd is a 2013 graduate of the University of
dental.org and click on Leadership Central. Michigan School of Dentistry.
Are you connected?
Introducing MDA Connection,
the official member app of the
Michigan Dental Association!
Save time looking for the information you need!
The MDA Connection app provides convenient
access to the most up-to-date news – all in one
easy-to-use platform.
BONUS!
Keep updated on the latest MDA news with
weekly push notifications – sent directly
to you – no need to search.
10 JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021AP WIN
PLE A
WA N
TC
H!
MDA DENTAL PAC
MDA HOUSE OF DELEGATES MEETING – APRIL 17-18, 2021
MDA ANNUAL SESSION – APRIL 22-24, 2021
MAKE A DONATION AND BE ENTERED TO WIN AN APPLE PRODUCT!
PARTICIPANTS: All MDA members.
OBJECTIVE: Be the House of Delegates Region to raise the most PAC dollars or be the Region with
the highest participation percentage. Donations must be submitted by the end of the day Saturday, April 24.
PRIZES: Winners will be featured in the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association. Plus, all donors will be
entered to win Apple products based on their contribution level. You do not need to be present to win.
DONATION LEVEL: PRIZE DRAWING:
Silver ($1 - $249) Apple TV
Gold ($250 - $499) Apple AirPods
Platinum ($500 - $999) Apple Watch
Presidential Club ($1,000+) Apple iPad and name recognition in the MDA building.
YES! I am ready to help!
*Make check payable to: MDA Dental PAC (payment plans available; contact the MDA for more information)
Name: Employer:
Address:
City: State: ZIP:
Daytime phone: Email:
I would like to donate: $1,000+ President’s Club $500-$999 Platinum Level $250-$499 Gold Level $1-$249 Silver Level
Total: $
VISA MC AMEX Card Number: Exp. Date:
Signature:
Questions? Contact: Bill Sullivan or Josh Kluzak
800-589-2632
Send payment to:
Michigan Dental Association PAC
3657 Okemos Rd., Ste. 200, Okemos, MI 48864-3927N E WS YO U N EED
HELPING YOU SUCCEED
Late Stage Practice Website Updated
The MDA’s Late Stage Practice
website has been updated with a new
checklist to help you prepare for
retirement, as well as a new article, “I
Owe, I Owe, It’s Off to Work I Go.”
The retirement checklist was
prepared by Dr. Patrick Houlihan, an
MDA member and practice consultant
who has also written articles for the
MDA Journal.
The feature article, written by the
former editor of the Indiana Dental Association, describes how a near-death
experience gave him a new appreciation for his personal and professional life,
and helped rejuvenate his enthusiasm for dental practice. It’s a personal story
you’ll want to read.
The Late Stage Practice website is an ongoing MDA resource devoted to the
unique concerns of dentists in the latter stages of practice. See it at www.
michigandental.org/Late-Stage.
How to Access Health and Well-Being Help During these Stressful Times
Dentists and dental team members are at high risk of addiction, stress, and
emotional issues. But there is help for those in need — both the MDA and ADA
offer a variety of resources that may be of assistance. That’s especially important
during these stressful times. Resources include:
MDA Member Assistance Program: The MDA Member Assistance Program,
funded by the MDA Foundation, provides you and your family members with free
and confidential help for any kind of problem that affects your life or work. The
program can help with emotional or stress-related problems, martial or family
problems, financial and legal difficulties, substance abuse, problems related to
work, and balancing work/life situations. Services also include life coaching,
medical advocacy, and personal assistance. Visit michigandental.org/assistance
or call 800-788-8630.
MDA Health and Well-Being Program: The MDA Health and Well-Being
Program matches those in need with concerned colleagues who’ve had similar
experiences or who are familiar with addiction, recovery, or related issues. The
program assists MDA members, their families, or staff in recovery, and is
completely confidential. For more information, email care@michigandental.org.
MDA Website Well-Being Pages: Visit the MDA’s well-being pages at
michigandental.org/well-being for helpful resources, links to related websites,
and other assistance.
Well-Being Resources from the ADA: Visit the ADA Center for Professional
Success at success.ada.org/wellness for a variety of useful wellness resources.
Included is updated information to help you cope with the stress the COVID-19
pandemic has created.
Michigan Professional Recovery Program: The Health Professional Recovery
Program is a confidential, non-disciplinary program designed to assist licensed or
registered health professionals recover from substance abuse/chemical
dependency problems or a mental health problem. The toll-free number for the
HPRP is 800-453-3784. For more information, visit hprp.org.
12 JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021ADA Adopts Addition to Code of Ethics,
Balancing Obligation to Patients, Public
Dentists have ethical obligations to of Ethics advisory opinion follows:
not only provide care for patients but 3.A.1. ELECTIVE AND NON-
also serve the public at large, espe- EMERGENT PROCEDURES DURING A
cially during a public health crisis like PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY.
the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Dentists have ethical obligations
a new advisory opinion approved by to provide care for patients and also
the ADA Council on Ethics, Bylaws serve the public at large. Typically,
and Judicial Affairs late last year and these obligations are interrelated.
added to the ADA Code of Ethics. Dentists are able to provide oral
The advisory opinion provides health care for patients according to
guidance on the analysis that needs the patient’s desires and wishes, so
to be performed during a widespread long as the treatment is within the
health emergency that is aimed at scope of what is deemed acceptable
balancing the ethical obligations a care without causing the patient
dentist owes an individual patient harm or impacting the public. During MDA
and the public at large. public health crises or emergencies,
As was experienced during the however, the dentist’s ethical obliga-
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
early days of the pandemic last tion to the public may supersede the COMMITTEE
spring, those obligations may be in dentist’s ethical obligations to indi-
conflict, said Robert Wilson, DDS, vidual patients. This may occur, for
chair of the council. example, when a communicable dis-
“The early stages of the COVID-19 ease causes individual patients who Having challenges with
pandemic presented public health undergo treatment and /or the public
risks that were readily apparent to to be exposed to elevated health stress, anxiety,
the dental profession and the ADA,” risks. During the time of a public depression, addiction...
Wilson said. “Our ethical obligations health emergency, therefore, dentists We can help!
to the public at large gained greater should balance the competing ethical
importance than perhaps any time in obligations to individual patients and
the modern history of our profession. the public. If, for example, a patient
The pandemic forced dentists to shift requests an elective or non-emergent SP
L
IR
A
their attention from the patient in our procedure during a public health cri- I TU
C I
A
YS
operatory to the entire community, sis, the dentist should weigh the risk L
PH
while never neglecting the best inter- to the patient and the public from
est of our patients.” performing that procedure during
WELL-BEING
Wilson emphasized that a shift in the public health emergency, post-
the balance towards the public at poning such treatment if, in the den-
large does not mean that dentists tist’s judgment, the risk of harm to
EM
should ever abandon the interest of the patient and /or the public is ele-
L
O
IA
TIO
C
their patients. vated and cannot be suitably miti-
SO
N
A
During the pandemic, the profes- gated. If, however, the patient pres-
L
sion was asked to temporarily defer ents with an urgent or emergent
elective procedures while continuing condition necessitating treatment to
to provide emergency care, Wilson
said, and it was up to the dentist, in
prevent or eliminate infection or to
preserve the structure and function
517-643-4171
care@michigandental.org
consultation with the patient, to de- of teeth or orofacial hard and soft tis-
www.michigandental.org/well-being
termine what care could be deferred sues, the weighing of the dentist’s
to the individual patient compared to competing ethical obligations may re-
the risk to the patient and the com- sult in moving forward with the treat-
munity at large. ment of the patient.
The full text of the new ADA Code — From ADA News
JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021 13ENDORSED PROGRA MS NEWS
CareCredit Hosts Vodcasts with Dental eScapes Relaxation
Practice Strategies Your Office Can Use TV Now Free for
To help dentists and
their teams revitalize their MDA Members!
practices, CareCredit has
MDA TV is your private TV
created a popular new
channel branded for your prac-
vodcast series, Prepared to
tice, and now, it’s available free to
Care, that connects you
all members! Television is the
with innovative and lead-
most effective branding and
ing-edge dental peers and
advertising medium. Powered by
consultants.
eScapes Relaxation Television,
In the first episode, Rita
MDA TV relaxes your patients,
Zamora, social media
reduces their dental anxiety and
strategy expert, discusses social media’s evolving role in patient communica-
perceived wait and chair time.
tions and how to leverage this communication channel to build patient rela-
Best of all, MDA TV can raise your
tionships, trust and set the foundation for patients’ long-term oral health.
elective procedure income
“Social media is the opportunity to let patients get to know you, your team,
through adver-
your passions, your commitment to safety, and the services you offer. It’s
tising to your
where you build relationships and build trust,” Zamora says.
patients —
To access this vodcast episode visit carecredit.com/providercenter/
without you or
resourcescenter/dental/.
your staff being perceived as
The vodcast series
“selling” to them. MDA TV users
delivers actionable
have reported as much as 15%
strategies on topics
increases in elective procedure
including presenting
income with eScapes. You can
care recommendations
enjoy similar results without a
to help increase case
recurring subscription fee. Show
acceptance in a world
MDA TV on your monitors in your
of PPE, with Dr. Brian
operatories for maximum impact.
Harris; creating sys-
Visit eScapesDentalTV.com/mi or
tems that overcome the
call 734-241-4410 to sign up.
five reasons patients
decline treatment, with
Dr. Arvind Philomin;
and re-imagining or
fine-tuning your vision Slow Pay Problems?
for your practice and
future, with Dr. Chris Try TSI to Collect
Salierno.
CareCredit-enrolled
More, Faster
providers can access Reduce bad debt and collect more
more insights from of what you are owed by using the
leading dental educa- MDA-endorsed TSI for patient debt
tors at www.carecredit. collection. TSI uses a diplomatic
com/providercenter. series of patient contacts by letter
Yet to add CareCredit as a financing solution? Join more than 240,000 and phone to inspire patients to catch
provider and health-focused retail locations that accept CareCredit by calling up on their past-due payments. TSI’s
800-300-3046, option 5. experience is that 75% of accounts
This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with pay by the fifth outreach
your individual business, financial, legal, tax and/or other advisers with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and
any of its affiliates, including CareCredit (collectively, “Synchrony”), makes no representations or warranties regarding this attempt. MDA members get
content and accepts no liability for any loss or harm arising from the use of the information provided. All statements and
opinions in this podcast are the sole opinions of Rita Zamora. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of
a discount on services. Call
these terms and conditions. 877-377-5378 to get started.
14 JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021Turn to MDA Insurance for Discounts on At a Glance
Professional Liability Coverage Dailey Solutions is the newly
endorsed vendor for office
One of the benefits of supplies, including ink and toner
being an MDA member is cartridges, break room supplies
receiving an automatic 10% and much more. This online vendor
discount on your Professional offers more than 70,000 products
Protection Plan malpractice that will deliver an overall savings
insurance policy. This dis- of 2% to 15% compared to Staples
count is exclusive to Advantage. Enjoy free shipping on
MDA members, and PPP orders of $50 or more. A robust
insurance is available only warehouse system means most
from MDA Insurance. products are delivered in one to
In addition to your mem- two business days.
ber discount, you can receive Visit dsofficeusa.com to create
an additional 10% discount on your liability insurance premium for three an account to see special MDA
years if you are insured through the PPP and complete its Risk Management prices. Call 800-601-4505 M-F 8
course. This is self-paced, online learning. Topics covered include manage- a.m. – 5 p.m. CST, for assistance. If
ment of patient communications, implementation of effective risk protocols, you have been
principles of acceptable chart and record documentation, effective manage- using Staples
ment of non-clinical issues and adverse events, and much more! Earn 4.5 Advantage,
CEUs at your convenience online at protectorplan.com/risk-management. PPP please
insureds may take the course for no cost; a $75 fee will be assessed to non- establish a new
PPP insureds. account with Dailey Solutions.
Both claims-made and occurrence forms of coverage are available. Let one
of our commercial insurance agents explain the differences so you can decide Medicare webinar coming in
which is right for you. Why not find out how your professional liability insur- May. If you, your spouse or an
ance stacks up to the PPP? You may employee are 65 or turning 65 this
realize a savings and enjoy improved year, the MDA Insurance
coverage. Contact MDA Insurance by Medicare Webinar should be on
emailing commins@mdaifg.com or your calendar. It’s occurring
call 800-860-2272. Friday, May 21 from 1-3:30 p.m.
Earn two CE credits by attending
MDA-Endorsed DBS Investment Advisers this free, educational program. To
register, contact Lisa Sillman at
Welcomes Dr. Jeffrey Brink as Adviser 877-906-9924, ext. 450, or email
her at lsillman@mdaifg.com.
Bolstering its position as the leading financial advisory Learn how to accept touchless
firm for dentists, DBS Investment Advisers is proud to payments. MDA-endorsed Best
announce the addition of Dr. Jeffrey Brink to its team. Dr. Card presents an informative
Brink is an MDA-member dentist as well as a licensed on-demand webinar about how to
investment adviser representative. Dr. Brink’s practice is accept touchless credit card
located in Hamburg Township. In addition, he owned and payments, something of interest
operated his own investment advisory firm serving only to most dentists during the viral
members of the dental profession before merging his pandemic. To
business with DBSIA in 2020. view the
Brink
Ted Schumann II, DBSIA webinar go to
president, and Dr. Brink are available to assist mdaprograms.com/videos and
MDA members with pursuing their financial select “COVID-Friendly Payments
and practice goals. Call 800-327-2377 and set for the Dental Office.” Or call Best
up an appointment with Schumann II or Dr. Card at 877-739-3952.
Brink.
JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021 15FRO M T H E ED I TO R
Integrating Vaccination
with Oral Health Care
By Christopher J. Smiley DDS
Editor-in-Chief
G
etting vaccinated conjures up memo- states recognize the public health benefit of vaccination
ries of trips to the pediatrician’s office, as a duty shared by oral health care providers. For exam-
ple, HPV vaccination efforts through dental offices could
where they handed out red safety-
have a significant impact on public health. The CDC esti-
suckers to those who held still for mates that the human papillomavirus causes 70% of oro-
their shot. Adults are now more likely to get their annual pharyngeal cancers, and perhaps as high as 80% of our
flu shots at a local pharmacy, and COVID-19 vaccines patients will become infected with HPV in their lifetime.
occur at locations ranging from county health depart- Vaccination of adolescents against HPV can prevent this
ments to drive-throughs at major league ballparks. trajectory, yet only two-thirds of those eligible receive the
To control the pandemic as quickly as possible, as initial dose, and fewer than half get the second. Here is
many people as possible must be vaccinated, but work- where dental-office-delivered vaccination can significant-
force issues create obstacles. The sheer volume of people ly improve vaccination rates and lower cancer risks for
seeking vaccination is overburdening both urban and our patients.
rural communities. In late January, Washtenaw, and Patients trust dentists to deliver complex injections
Wayne counties requested that retired licensed health and know they have the training to handle medical emer-
professionals volunteer to assist in administering vaccina- gencies that may arise. Dentists routinely counsel patients
tions. The Michigan Department of Health and Human and caregivers on treatment benefits and considerations.
Services also has asked for support from the National Educating parents on the merits of seeking HPV vaccina-
Guard. tion with their health care provider or health department
Vaccine shortages arising from interruptions in manu- can get lost in the follow-through. Once receptive, having
facturing and distribution are slowing the vaccination rate the option to be vaccinated then and there at the dental
in some locations. That dam will burst once production office will improve adolescent children’s HPV vaccination
meets demand, further overburdening the vaccination rates. Because dental patients return for routine preven-
provider network. With the emergence of variant strains, tive care, there is a substantial follow-up opportunity to
booster shots may become a recurring necessity. Likely, enhance the lagging rate of the second vaccination of
the mass effort to inoculate our nation won’t end soon. these children.
The Michigan Dental Association recognizes that its Much the same holds for the convenience of getting a
members can help in this crisis, and has approached the flu shot at a dental visit. It’s an additional point of access
state to allow dentists to join the workforce delivering vac- to assure an optimally vaccinated population. The intent
cinations at mass immunization clinics. As many as 20 of dentist-delivered vaccination is not to enter into a turf
states have already enlisted dentists to augment COVID- battle with large pharmacy chains or family physicians.
19 vaccine delivery efforts. Others broaden dentistry’s It’s about assuring our patients’ health through the inte-
scope to include the delivery of all sorts of vaccinations gration of oral health care. Dentistry, by its nature, is
before the pandemic. Illinois now allows dentists to pro- preventive health care. So, too, is vaccination.
vide flu vaccinations for adult patients in the dental office. At present, the Michigan Department of Licensing and
Oregon went further, to allow dentists to deliver the full Regulatory Affairs has determined that it is outside a den-
range of vaccines to all age groups. It is up to the dentist tist’s scope of practice to deliver vaccinations. If this
to choose to provide this service. changes, don’t expect to get a sucker from a dentist follow-
Incorporating vaccination delivery into clinical dental ing a vaccination.
practice comes with several logistical hurdles. Still, these Contact Editor Smiley at csmiley@michigandental.org.
16 JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021Find Your Fantastic
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I’m Confused about My
License Expiration Date
By MDA Staff with Basam Shamo, DDS
Chair, MDA Committee on Membership
Q
uestion: I just noticed that my Mich- my patients know? How does this affect dental records?
igan dental license has an expiration Answer: You should definitely advise your patients
that you will be discontinuing your practice. This should
date of 08/05/2024. I contacted a
be in writing, setting forth the date and the recommenda-
classmate of mine from dental tion that the patient make arrangements to be placed un-
school, and asked her about the date on her license; she der the care of another dentist. You might suggest the
has the same date. I have always understood that we renew name of another dentist or a contact who could assist in
every three years, and 2024 would put us at four years. Has this regard. You must also notify the Michigan Depart-
there been some sort of change? And if there has been ment of Community Health of your retirement and dis-
some change, what are our CE requirements? close to it who has custody of your dental records. The
Answer: The state of Michigan launched a new licens- letter to your patients should also make reference to their
ing platform called MiPlus in 2019. Your license renewal dental records, with the request that the patient autho-
date now corresponds with the date you were first issued rize transfer of the dental records to another dentist. A
a license. In order to line all the dates up and not shorten suggested sample letter is available in the practice man-
your renewal period, LARA extended it instead, just for agement section of the MDA website.
one licensing period. You do not have to obtain more CE,
and the requirements remain the same at 60 credit hours. Question: After I retire and change to retired member-
The next time you renew it will be for a three-year period. ship status, do I have to keep my license current to retain
my membership?
Question: I’m getting married in a couple months and Answer: No. Retired members are not required to keep
want to change my name. I’m not sure who I need to no- their license current.
tify and where to start. Can you help?
Answer: Because you hold a professional license, Question: Do I have to complete the same amount of
there are a variety of different organizations you’ll want continuing education after I retire to keep my license?
to notify. But there’s no need to spend an entire day Answer: Dentists who have retired but want to main-
searching for who, when, and how — the MDA offers sev- tain their license are still required to take 60 credits of
eral different transition checklists to you as a member approved dental CE every three years and keep a current
benefit. Contact membership@michigandental.org for a CPR certification. LARA does offer a volunteer dental li-
name-change checklist. cense for retired dentists that only requires 40 credits
every three years with CPR certification. The volunteer
Question: How do I get my OJT dental assistant certi- license is available only for retired health professionals
fied in radiology? who were previously licensed to practice in Michigan, but
Answer: The MDA online Radiography Training Pro- who no longer have a current, active Michigan profes-
gram is a convenient, affordable way for assistants to ob- sional license. This license may only be used for the pur-
tain Michigan’s required radiography training without pose of donating treatment and health care in Michigan
the need for classrooms, travel, and time away from to indigent and needy individuals or medically under-
work. Visit michigandental.org/radiography to learn served areas. Information and an application for a volun-
more, or call the MDA’s Dave Lutz at 517-346-9426. teer license can be found in the practice management
section of the MDA website, under “regulations” and “li-
Question: I’m getting ready to retire. Do I have to let cense renewal.”
18 JOURNAL OF THE MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION • MARCH 2021You can also read
